Police Brutality and Misconduct

Police brutality is broadly defined as the excessive use of physical force by law enforcement that results in unwarranted harm. If you, or someone you love, have been affected by the misconduct or illegal actions of a police officer, the law is on your side. In situations where NY law enforcement officials abuse their power, a New York police brutality lawyer can help you secure fair compensation for the injustice you have suffered. Do not let fear prevent you from exploring your civil rights with the legal advocates at Friedman, Levy, Goldfarb & Green. Our Manhattan-based law firm has substantial experience representing plaintiffs in many types of police brutality cases and other civil rights violations. Reach out for a free and confidential consultation to learn more about pursuing a police misconduct claim.

Grounds for filing a NYC Police Brutality Lawsuit

When law enforcement officers engage in actions that deprive individuals of their civil rights or partake in inappropriate or illegal behavior in relation to their legal duties, they may be liable under state and federal law. Police brutality and misconduct are directly tied to discrimination and can result in a gross miscarriage of justice.

In 2016, the city of New York shelled out a staggering $228.5 million to resolve police misconduct lawsuits. This sum represents more than a quarter of the city’s annual budget.

When NYPD cross the line of duty and physical, emotional or financial damages are sustained, victims need a skilled police misconduct attorney on their side. Friedman, Levy, Goldfarb & Green offers aggressive advocacy for victims of:

Excessive force/physical assault

Discriminatory harassment

Sexual misconduct

Intimidation

False arrest

Racial profiling

Verbal attacks

Unlawful searches and seizures

The NYPD has a monumental task in keeping the peace and ensuring the safety of our diverse neighborhoods. However, when protocols are ignored, and officers take matters into their own hands, they can face civil liability for any ensuing harm. Victims of police beatings, unlawful arrests and other injustices deserve compensation for their pain and suffering. At Friedman, Levy, Goldfarb & Green, our talented attorneys make sure that law enforcement officers who abused their position are held responsible.

NYPD misconduct lawsuit payouts

Allegations of police brutality and misconduct in NYC are nothing new. In 2001 a poor Haitian immigrant who was sexually assaulted inside a Brooklyn police station received a $9 million settlement thanks in large part to his legal counsel. Enormous monetary payouts like this have made subtle improvements in the way that the NY Police Department trains, monitors and disciplines its officers, but complaints have still made headlines, and some have resulted in multimillion-dollar settlements.

$5.9 million settlement paid to the family of Eric Garner, who suffered fatal injuries from a police officer who placed him in a chokehold while arresting him on Staten Island

$4.1 million paid to the family of Akai Gurley, who was killed in a Brooklyn housing project by a ricocheting bullet fired off by a police officer

$3 million payout to the family of Amadou Diallo, a West African immigrant who was fatally shot in the Bronx by cops who mistook his wallet for a gun. Police say the victim resembled a suspected rapist.

-$600,000 settlement paid to Jateik Reed and three relatives in a NYPD police brutality lawsuit. Cell phone camera and video surveillance footage shows officers beating and kicking Reed in a borough of the Bronx and the case highlighted the controversial act of racial profiling.

Suing for police misconduct isn’t just about the money – although financial reparations are a necessary outcome for many victims and their loved ones. Litigation also serves another essential purpose: holding corrupt law enforcement authorities responsible for their actions and deterring similar conduct from others.

Compensation for victims of police brutality

While some police brutality claims grab national headlines, countless others do not. When suspects cooperate with law enforcement and excessive force is employed without cause, victims may be entitled to significant monetary reparations.

Our NYC police brutality attorneys are firmly committed to advocating for those who have suffered civil rights abuses. We work diligently to recover maximum damages on your behalf, while seeking accountability.

The strongest cases usually settle out of court, and can net a range of damages for:

Pain and suffering

Medical expenses

Lost wages

Loss of future earnings

Mental anguish

Humiliation

Attorney fees

Punitive damages

Police misconduct claims in NYC have specific procedures and legal standards that must be met, underscoring the need for expert legal representation. Many law firms decline these cases because they are too challenging and labor-intensive to take on. The best lawyers to sue NYPD are those who have the resources and tactical skill to confront governmental agencies that allow abuse of authority. If you believe your rights were violated, contact Friedman, Levy, Goldfarb & Green to speak with a New York City police misconduct attorney.

Expert representation from our NY Police Brutality Lawyer

Any form of misconduct from those who are sworn to protect should not be tolerated. Our civil rights lawyers can help victims of racial profiling, assault, unlawful arrest and other types of police misconduct seek justice. There are state and federal laws designed to protect citizens from unjustifiable police violence, and our legal team knows exactly what is needed to build a strong, compelling case. Protect your rights by calling Friedman, Levy, Goldfarb & Green today.

How do I file a complaint against a police department?

Document Everything As Soon As Possible – Memories fade and details can be forgotten or misremembered if you wait to document what happened to you.

Talk to a Civil Rights Attorney – Explain your situation to an attorney who specializes in civil rights in New York. A lawyer is your best option to understand if you have a case and the potential recovery.

Prepare (Do not send) a police Miscondust Report – It’s important to prepare but not send a formal complaint. If the complaint is sent before any formal lawsuit is filed you may inadvertently give away key information that could hurt your case.

Follow All Advice Given By Your Attorney – Police Misconduct cases are tricky and you don’t want to unintentionally hurt your case.

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The content of this website has been prepared by Friedman, Levy Goldfarb, Green, P.C., New York Injury Attorneys. This site is intended to be used for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The material posted on this website is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, a lawyer-client relationship, and readers should not act upon it without seeking professional counsel. This website contains attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.